WWI Life in the trenches
I was approached to create a series of short, episodic reimaginings of trench warfare during WWI, aiming to bring this pivotal and harrowing chapter of history to life. Drawing inspiration from Will Dyson’s powerful WWI sketches, alongside numerous historical accounts, I set out to create an immersive experience that not only depicted the brutality of war but also conveyed the human stories behind it. The project sought to shed light on one of the most tumultuous periods in Australia’s—and the world’s—history, offering a poignant reflection of the courage, sacrifice, and resilience displayed during the Great War.
This short film powerfully depicts the profound sense of helplessness and despair that defined life in the trenches during WWI. Based on the harrowing account of Pompey Elliot, a senior officer in the Australian Army, it immerses viewers in the brutal realities of warfare, capturing both the psychological and physical toll experienced by those on the frontlines. Through his story, the film conveys not only the unrelenting hardship faced by soldiers but also the resilience and determination that kept them going amid the unimaginable challenges of war.
A strikingly poignant visualization brings to life one of Pompey Elliot’s diary entries, written after a harrowing battle on the Western Front during the Somme Offensive of 1916. Through a minimalist yet powerful approach, this visual representation captures the raw emotion and despair embedded in his words, offering a window into the psyche of a soldier who witnessed the brutal realities of war. It serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made during one of the most devastating battles in history, evoking a deep, emotional connection to the experiences of those who fought.
An animated illustration of the battle plan for the Battle of Fromelles in July 1916, marking the Australian Imperial Force’s debut on the Western Front. The battle would become known as “the worst 24 hours in Australia’s history” up to that point, as both Australian and British commanders gravely underestimated the strength and morale of the German forces, leading to devastating losses. This visual representation captures the strategic miscalculations and the catastrophic outcome of one of WWI’s bloodiest engagements.